AMC & product-related updates
Edelweiss Mutual Fund launched India’s first hybrid index fund, the Edelweiss Nifty LargeMidcap250 Plus 8–13 Year G-Sec 70:30 Index Fund, combining equity exposure with government securities.
HSBC Mutual Fund launched its first exchange-traded funds in India. The HSBC Gold ETF NFO will remain open from March 16 to March 18, while the HSBC Gold ETF Fund of Fund will open between March 19 and March 25. The minimum investment amount is ₹5,000.
Mirae Asset Mutual Fund announced the launch of a Silver ETF Fund of Fund, with the NFO scheduled to open on March 18 and close on March 25.
Long-term systematic investment plan participation remains strong. More than 30% of SIP assets under management now come from investments held for over five years, helping total SIP AUM cross ₹16 lakh crore.
Data from ICRA Analytics showed SIP contributions rose 14.79% year-on-year in February 2026, reaching ₹29,845 crore despite market volatility.
Regulatory & policy developments
SEBI cleared the IPO proposals of TravelPlus, Tea Post and Learnfluence Education.
Three companies — Rays Power Infra, Arjun Jewellers and Madhur Iron & Steel India — have withdrawn their draft IPO papers in the past week.
SEBI Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey said the regulator is reviewing overlaps between mutual fund distributors and investment advisers and may introduce a common advertisement code for intermediaries.
A SEBI panel has also sought feedback from stock exchanges on allowing foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) to participate in commodity options.
The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) revised the compensation structure for NPS distributors. Points of Presence will receive ₹200 plus 0.20% of AUM on a quarterly basis for schemes under NPS, including NPS All Citizen, NPS Vatsalya and NPS Lite.
Mutual fund & distribution signals
More than 30% of SIP assets now come from investments held for over five years, indicating increasing long-term participation in mutual fund investing.
Year-on-year SIP contributions also continued to grow despite market volatility, reflecting steady retail participation in mutual fund schemes.
Markets & sectoral trends
India’s wholesale inflation rose to 2.13% in February, with the Wholesale Price Index increasing to 158.2, compared with 157.8 in January.
India’s trade deficit widened to nearly $4 billion in February, despite strong services exports. Services exports rose to $39.53 billion, while imports increased to $16.38 billion compared with $14.51 billion a year earlier.
Higher crude oil prices and rising bond yields could weigh on PSU banking stocks, according to analysts at SBI Securities, while sectors such as auto ancillaries and FMCG may remain in focus.
ICICI Securities expects aluminium prices to move toward $3,500 per tonne, supported by strong long-term demand outlook.
Corporate actions, capital flows & business developments
Reliance Industries is reportedly working with six investment banks on the proposed Jio IPO, which could become India’s largest public offering.
SEBI’s revised public shareholding norms may encourage large companies to launch mega IPOs while reducing dilution pressure at listing, according to investment bankers.
Muthoot FinCorp launched the second tranche of its secured NCD issue to raise up to ₹600 crore. The issue is open from March 13 to March 23, offering yields between 8.70% and 9.10% with a CRISIL AA- (Positive) rating.
A JSW Steel unit is reportedly exploring a $1 billion short-term debt issue, with foreign banks expected to act as arrangers.
Luxury farmhouse communities are emerging as a growing second-home investment segment, supported by rising HNI demand and improved connectivity through new expressway corridors.
Source: Moneycontrol, Business Standard, CNBC TV18, Cafemutual
Disclaimer: The content shared above is intended solely for general awareness and educational purposes for mutual fund and financial product distributors. It does not constitute investment advice, solicitation, or a recommendation of any kind. Investments in securities markets are subject to market risks, and distributors and investors should review all relevant scheme-related documents carefully before taking any investment decision.
